How to Care for Abutilon
- 1). Plant abutilon in soil that has a pH between 6.5 and 7.0. If you do not know the pH of the soil check it before planting. Use a soil testing kit purchased from a garden center. If the pH of the soil is below 6.5, break up the soil with a garden fork and add lime, for soil above 7.0 and peat moss. Add the required amendment according to label instructions.
- 2). Maintain moist soil around the abutilon at all times. Use a soaker hose to provide deep waterings at a rate of 1 inch per week. Press your fingers into the soil regularly to check for moisture. If it feels dry at a depth of 1 inch, it is time to water.
- 3). Lay down a layer of mulch around the abutilon. Spread a 2-inch layer of straw or bark chips around the shrub to reduce weed growth and help with water retention.
- 4). Feed the abutilon a diet of all-purpose fertilizer after planting. Apply the fertilizer according to label instructions and water thoroughly. After the first growing season, apply the fertilizer yearly, in the spring.
- 5). Prune dead, damaged or inward growing branches with a pair of pruning shears. Pinch of withered blooms to encourage new growth. Cut back unruly branches and overgrowth in the early spring.
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